Star Wars: The Old Republic to Provide Free-to-Play Option This Fall

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BioWare has announced today that they'll be adding a free-to-play option this fall to their story-driven MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic.

“Players want flexibility and choice. The subscription-only model presented a major barrier for a lot of people who wanted to become part of The Old Republic universe,” said Matthew Bromberg, GM of BioWare Austin.

Jeff Hickman, Executive Producer of Star Wars: The Old Republic added, “Since launch, we’ve been listening to feedback from our fans and adding new content and refining The Old Republic at a breakneck pace. We believe we are in a position to help improve the service even more, not only by continuing to add new content, but also by expanding the game to many more Star Wars fans, increasing the populations on worlds and the vibrancy of the community.”

This option will give players access to each class, all the way to level 50 with certain restrictions present. Unlimited game access with end-game content and other new features will be available a la carte or through a subscription option. As the first step of this transition, SWTOR will go on sale in August for $14.99 USD, which inclues a free month of play!

Subscription – A service designed for players who want unrestricted access to all the game features via ongoing subscription or by redeeming a Game Time Card. In addition to gaining access to all game content as our current subscribers do now, subscribers will receive ongoing monthly grants of Cartel Coins, the new virtual currency that will be introduced later this fall. Cartel Coins can be used to purchase valuable in-game items including customizable gear and convenience features that will enhance the game play experience.

Free-To-Play – The first 50 levels will be Free-to-Play, with restrictions on access to new content and advanced player features. Some restrictions can be “unlocked” with Cartel Coins.

Star Wars: The Old Republic is a colossal story-driven MMO set in George Lucas' Star Wars universe. The game revolutionizes the way MMO's are delivered with high quality, voice-acted dialogue and storylines that change based on your personal choices and consequences. Players will have to choose once and for all; Galactic Republic or Sith Empire. Once your faction is decided, players will be able to select a player class from some excellent, iconic roles.